Intersecting Forces: Religion, culture, and gender dynamics in child marriage amongst the Fulanis in Juapong, Ghana

Abstract

This study explores child marriage amongst the Fulanis in Juapong. It focuses on how religion and culture are used as tools to perpetuate the practice. The overall objective is to understand the mechanisms through which child marriage affects the education, financial freedom, health, and well-being of Fulani girls in Juapong. The study examines this through an intersectional and gendered lens. Child marriage perpetuates gender inequality and several other social injustices against young girls. Intersectionality serves as a lens through which the marginalization of young girls in Fulani communities can be properly assessed. The research employed a qualitative approach that examined the lived experiences of young girls. The findings suggest that the consent of young girls is not sought before these alliances are formed. Further, the practice has a devastating impact on young girls' education, health, and economic freedom. Also, all the young girls who were interviewed did not want the practice to continue. However, the women in the older generation were in full support of the practice to preserve the culture of the Fulanis. Finally, the study discovered that religion and culture were used as tools to perpetuate the practice. However, Islamic texts were wrongly interpreted in some cases to suit the narrative of those in power and control.